Butch: meaning, definitions and examples
๐ช
butch
[ bสtส ]
slang term
A butch is a term used to describe a person, typically a woman, who presents in a masculine manner. This can include variations in clothing, behavior, and attitude that challenge traditional gender norms. The term is often embraced within the LGBTQ+ community as a form of identity.
Synonyms
gender-nonconforming, masculine woman, tomboy
Examples of usage
- She identifies as butch and loves wearing tailored suits.
- In the LGBTQ+ community, butch and femme identities are often celebrated.
- His butch demeanor challenged societal expectations.
slang usage
To butch can also refer to adopting a masculine style or mannerisms, often used informally. This usage might indicate varying levels of masculinity irrespective of a person's gender identity.
Synonyms
man up, masculinize, toughen up
Examples of usage
- He decided to butch it up for the party.
- She butched her look with a new haircut.
- They often butch their appearance for special occasions.
Translations
Translations of the word "butch" in other languages:
๐ต๐น macho
๐ฎ๐ณ เคฌเคเฅเคเคพ
๐ฉ๐ช macho
๐ฎ๐ฉ jantan
๐บ๐ฆ ะผัะถะฝัะน
๐ต๐ฑ macho
๐ฏ๐ต ใใใใง
๐ซ๐ท macho
๐ช๐ธ macho
๐น๐ท erkek
๐ฐ๐ท ๋ง์ด
๐ธ๐ฆ ู ุงุชุดู
๐จ๐ฟ macho
๐ธ๐ฐ macho
๐จ๐ณ ็กฌๆฑ
๐ธ๐ฎ macho
๐ฎ๐ธ karlmann
๐ฐ๐ฟ ะตัะบะตะบ
๐ฌ๐ช แแแฉแ
๐ฆ๐ฟ macho
๐ฒ๐ฝ macho
Etymology
The term 'butch' originated in the early 20th century, primarily within the American LGBTQ+ community. Its roots can be traced back to the 1940s and 1950s when it was used to describe women who adopted a more masculine presentation and demeanor. The word is believed to have derived from 'butcher,' which was used to signify a tough or rough character. Over the decades, as the understanding of gender identity evolved, 'butch' became embraced as a positive self-identifier among those who resonate with more masculine traits, especially within lesbian subcultures. The reclamation of the term has been significant in discussions of gender fluidity and the spectrum of gender expression. Today, while the term still holds its original meaning, it has also broadened to encompass a range of identities and presentations that defy conventional gender norms.